Communications Specialist

Responsibilities

• - You will identify, develop and write compelling news stories about APL's technical work, research, discoveries, people and impact for internal and external audiences.
• - You will regularly contribute to production of APL's twice-weekly digital staff newsletter,. You will also periodically help manage newsletter production in partnership with colleagues.
• - You will translate complex scientific and technical information into clear, accurate and engaging content appropriate for different audiences and communications channels.
• - You will serve as a communications resource and advisor to technical staff, leaders and other stakeholders, helping them define communications objectives and recommending effective messages, audiences, channels and approaches. You will be expected to turn those recommendations into action—developing and delivering communications yourself and collaborating with graphic design, video, digital and other communications professionals as appropriate.
• - You will develop and execute communications plans and integrated campaigns for technical programs, organizational initiatives and Laboratory priorities, from initial strategy through execution as needed.
• - You will develop communications products in a variety of formats, which may include news stories, web content, fact sheets, presentations, talking points, briefing materials and other digital or print content.
• - You will support media outreach activities, including identifying potential media opportunities, developing story pitches, preparing subject matter experts for interviews and coordinating with colleagues on media engagement.
• - You will help shape messaging for technical experts and leaders, tailoring content to meet sponsor and stakeholder communication needs across panels, presentations, public talks, media engagements and other external-facing activities.
• - You will follow and uphold editorial standards and work across the Communications Department and the organization to ensure communications are accurate, consistent and aligned with broader messaging and priorities.

Requirements

• Have a Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations or a related field.
• Have 3+ years of relevant communications, journalism, public relations or related experience.
• Are an excellent writer and editor with demonstrated experience developing news, feature, technical or other communications content for varied audiences.
• Have demonstrated ability to understand complex subject matter and translate it into clear, compelling content for nontechnical audiences.
• Have experience developing communications plans, campaigns or recommendations based on audience and organizational objectives.
• Have experience supporting media relations, public relations or external communications activities.
• Have strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills and are comfortable working directly with subject matter experts, stakeholders and organizational leaders.
• Can manage multiple assignments and deadlines, set priorities and work independently while collaborating effectively as part of a team.
• Possess strong attention to detail, organization and follow-through.
• Have an ability to work in a dynamic environment as an agile member of a team.

Benefits

• generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance
• a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development